Take care of your car!

The credit crunch is affecting us all, but Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service is urging people not to cut back on vehicle maintenance.

Accidental vehicle fires are a common problem across the county, with an average of three such incidents every month in North Wiltshire alone.

Case manager Nic Cocks said: “In the year to November, we had 31 accidental vehicle fires in West Wiltshire and 36 in the north of the county. Our concern is that people may try to save money by not getting their cars or vans properly serviced or repaired.”

The risk of accidental fires can be reduced by taking the following precautions:

• Check all wiring on a routine basis, watching for signs of wear and tear or damage. All electrical alterations and additions should be carried out in a competent manner, preferably by a qualified mechanic.
• Routinely check all fuel lines for signs of wear and ensure connections are reliable.
• Modern car interiors are largely composed of polymers, plastics and other synthetic materials, all of which are particularly flammable. The smoke and fumes from the outbreak of fire are highly toxic and can be deadly if inhaled. Proper disposal of cigarettes and matches will minimise the risk they pose.
• Never use heat, naked flames or welding equipment near the fuel tank or feed pipes. Regularly check both inside and outside the vehicle whilst welding.
• Keep a multi-purpose dry powder or foam spray extinguisher conforming to BSEN3 in your car.

For a range of fire safety advice, visit www.wiltsfire.gov.uk

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